Colonel Abdoulaye Maizama, Minister of Environment, Hydraulics and Sanitation, visited Diffa on Thursday, July 9. The minister's visit included an inspection of the currently operational fish market, focusing on progress for water and fish infrastructure projects in the region. This full tour allowed the minister to assess firsthand the advancements being made in vital sectors for the regional economy and public well-being. During his visit, Colonel Maizama also toured the construction site of the second water tower in Diffa, as well as the new fish market currently nearing completion, showing the government's commitment to these key developments.
During his visit, Colonel Maizama emphasized the national importance of the ongoing work. "Le Chef de l’État tient beaucoup à cœur ce projet et nous le suivons de très près pour qu’il soit achevé dans le délai contractuel," Maizama stated, adding, "Les travaux sont exécutés par une entreprise 100 % nigérienne et nous ne doutons aucunement de l’expertise de DIDI Global Construction." His remarks showed the commitment to timely completion and confidence in the local firm, DIDI Global Construction, responsible for the execution. The minister's statement noted the strategic significance of these projects for the entire nation, not just the Diffa region, reflecting a broader governmental vision for development and self-reliance through local expertise.
Water Tower Project Advances
Colonel Abdoulaye Maizama visited the construction site of the second water tower in Diffa as part of his inspection tour, specifically assessing the progress of this key infrastructure. The PISEN project provides financing for the second water tower, with DIDI Global Construction executing the construction work. This new infrastructure is designed to have a capacity of 1,200 cubic meters, a significant increase that will bolster water supply for the growing population of Diffa. The construction of this second water tower is a critical component of the region's urban development plan, aiming to ensure reliable access to potable water for residents.
Project officials reported that the physical execution rate for the second water tower stands at approximately 78%, indicating substantial progress towards its completion. Concurrently, the disbursement rate for the project is estimated at 45% of the total contract amount, reflecting the financial commitment and ongoing investment in the initiative. The reception of the second water tower is currently scheduled for September, indicating an anticipated completion within the coming months. This timeline suggests that the residents of Diffa will soon benefit from enhanced water infrastructure, addressing long-standing needs for improved water access and distribution. This project, financed by PISEN and executed by DIDI Global Construction, is expected to significantly improve the daily lives of the local population.
Boosting the Fish Sector
The Minister of Environment, Hydraulics and Sanitation, Colonel Abdoulaye Maizama, also visited the new fish market currently nearing completion in Diffa during his inspection tour. This new infrastructure aims to enhance the region's fishing capabilities and support the local economy by providing a modern and efficient hub for fish trade. The construction of a dedicated road is underway to improve access to this facility, ensuring smooth transportation of goods and people. This new market is poised to become a central point for economic activity, benefiting local fishermen, traders, and consumers.
The road connecting Route Nationale n°1 (RN1) directly to the new fish market is financed through the PROLAC-Niger project. This infrastructure development is expected to streamline transportation and logistics for fish traders and consumers alike, reducing transit times and improving market efficiency. Officials have set the completion deadline for this key access road for the end of July 2026. This timeline indicates a significant ongoing investment in the region's infrastructure, ensuring long-term benefits for the fish sector and facilitating broader economic growth.
Further support for the local fishing community has been provided by the FSSP. The FSSP supplied frigorific containers and thermos to various actors within the fish sector in Diffa. These resources are designed to improve the preservation and transport of fish products, thereby reducing spoilage and enhancing market access for local producers. The provision of such equipment is expected to boost efficiency and profitability for those working in the Diffa fishery, enabling them to reach wider markets and ensure the quality of their produce. This initiative directly contributes to the sustainability and economic viability of the local fishing industry.
Broader Regional Investments
Diffa is one of the primary cities, alongside Niamey, benefiting from investments in urban areas under the PISEN project. This strategic focus notes the government's commitment to developing key urban centers across the country. The PISEN initiative is also responsible for completing works previously initiated under the PARCA project, demonstrating a continuity of efforts to enhance essential services. These ongoing works include critical water supply systems for both Diffa and N'Guigmi, aiming to ensure consistent and reliable access to water for these communities.
Beyond urban development, PISEN's reach extends to rural areas within the region, where it is financing the construction of 12 pastoral cemented wells, providing vital water sources for livestock and nomadic communities. Additionally, the project is funding 43 mini water supply systems, which will bring potable water closer to numerous rural households. To monitor groundwater levels and ensure sustainable water management, PISEN is also financing the installation of 43 piezometers across the region. These multifaceted investments show PISEN's full approach to infrastructure development, addressing both urban and rural needs to foster overall regional progress and improve the living conditions of the population.